Under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, employers must manage these risks. But safety is a team effort. We all have a role in spotting hazards and looking out for each other.
Safety at work - What employers must do
At Securitas and on our client sites, employers are required to identify where slips, trips and falls (STF) might happen and put controls in place. That means keeping floors and walkways in good condition, managing wet or contaminated surfaces, and making sure stairs and steps are safe and well maintained.
Lighting is a big part of this. If people can’t see hazards, they can’t avoid them. Employers must also provide information and training so everyone understands the risks and how to work safely.
In practice, this means:
- Safe, clean and well lit walkways and stairs
- Damaged flooring and steps repaired quickly
- Regular communication and training on STF risks
Everyday prevention in the workplace
Good housekeeping is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent incidents. Clear walkways, tidy work areas and quick clean up of spills make a big difference.
Spills should be dealt with straight away, using methods that don’t leave the floor slippery. Cables should be routed safely or covered, not trailing across corridors. In higher risk areas like entrances, kitchens and washrooms, anti slip mats or coatings can help – as long as mats lie flat and don’t become a trip hazard themselves.
Lighting should be checked regularly, indoors and outdoors. Car parks, external paths and loading areas need enough light so uneven ground, kerbs and obstacles are easy to see. Temporary signs and barriers should be used when floors are wet or work is in progress, and removed once the hazard is gone.
Training and toolbox talks are there to keep this fresh in our minds. Real examples from our own sites help turn “general safety advice” into something practical and relevant.
On the move - Vehicles, car parks and travel
Many of us travel as part of our job, whether between sites, to clients or to training. STF risks don’t stop at the door.
Getting in and out of vehicles is a common problem area. Steps and footwells should be kept clean and dry, and using three points of contact (two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand) gives better stability. Choosing well lit parking areas and taking a moment to check for potholes, kerbs, oil or fuel spills can prevent a fall.
Cyclists and motorcyclists should wear footwear with good grip and be extra careful on wet surfaces, painted road markings and metal covers, which can be very slippery in the rain. Pedestrians around traffic should stick to designated walkways and crossings, stay alert and avoid distractions like phones or headphones.
Walking safely - On and off site
Whether you’re on a client site, in a shopping centre, at a hospital, or just walking from the car to the control room, the basics are the same: be visible, be aware and choose the safest route.
In low light conditions, clothing or accessories that improve visibility help drivers and colleagues see you. Keeping your eyes on where you’re walking, rather than on your phone, gives you time to spot hazards like wet floors, loose gravel, uneven paving or cables.
Footwear matters. Shoes with good tread and support are essential, especially if you work outdoors or move between different surfaces. If the soles are worn smooth, it’s time to replace them.
Using handrails on stairs and ramps, avoiding rushing and sticking to marked paths and crossings are simple habits that prevent many injuries.
Stairs and steps - Small distance, big risk
Stairs and steps are a common location for serious injuries. Often, the cause is a mix of design, maintenance and behaviour.
Well designed stairs have even steps, secure handrails and clear, contrasting edges so each step is easy to see. They should be kept free from clutter, spills and loose items. Good lighting in stairwells and landings is essential; any faulty lights should be reported and fixed quickly.
How we use stairs is just as important. Using the handrail, not running or skipping steps, and avoiding loads that block your view all reduce risk. Phones are a particular problem – if you need to check a message, stop first, then move.
At home - The same risks, less awareness
Many slips, trips and falls happen away from work, but they still affect your health, your family and your ability to do your job. The same principles apply at home.
Keeping floors, hallways and stairs free from clutter, loose cables and bags reduces trip hazards. Spills in kitchens and bathrooms should be cleaned up straight away. Loose carpets, tiles or floorboards should be repaired rather than ignored.
Non-slip mats in bathrooms and other wet areas can help, as long as they lie flat and don’t slide. Wearing shoes or slippers with good grip indoors, especially on hard floors, is safer than walking in socks.
Talking about these risks with family members – especially children, older relatives or anyone with reduced mobility – helps everyone stay safer. Simple habits like “one hand for the handrail” and “clean as you go” work just as well at home as they do at work.
Your role - Small actions, big impact
Preventing slips, trips and falls is not just a management responsibility. Every one of us can make a difference.
You can help by:
- Spotting and reporting hazards early (wet floors, damaged steps, poor lighting)
- Wearing suitable footwear for your role and environment
- Using handrails, avoiding rushing and staying off your phone while walking
We’re here for you, and we want to keep improving.
If you’ve seen good STF prevention in action on your site or if there’s something that could be better share your experience with your manager or safety representative. Your feedback helps us make our workplace safer for everyone.
Small habits that prevent big incidents
Slips, trips and falls may seem minor, but they are one of the most consistent causes of injury across Irish workplaces and at home. The good news is that they are also one of the most preventable.
By combining safe environments, good housekeeping and simple everyday behaviours, we can significantly reduce the risk. Employers play a key role in maintaining safe conditions, but real progress happens when everyone takes responsibility - spotting hazards, making safer choices and speaking up when something isn’t right.
Whether you’re on site, on the move or at home, the same principles apply: stay aware, take your time and use the tools and supports available to you. It’s these small, consistent actions that keep you and your colleagues safe all year round.
About the author: Stephen Hardiman is Health & Safety Manager at Securitas Ireland, focusing on creating safe, compliant environments for clients and employees alike. He is passionate about promoting a proactive safety culture and supporting businesses in managing risk effectively.